Miscellayneous

I am a movie fiend. I love to go to the theater (minus the people who eat like baby cows) and the film-watching experience. I enjoy shopping for films, finding hidden gems on streaming apps, and picking out the hidden bits in films that not many people catch (see the scarecrows in Christian's apartment in Midsommar.) After my blog's skincare routine, I want to share my input on films on here because they occupy a large chunk of my spare time. As part of my fivethings series, these are my top five favorite films released this year.

Midsommar

When you've seen a film five times in theaters (three times theatrical cut + two times director's cut), it makes the top of your list. I have never been as immersed in a film as I was in Midsommar, truly from start to finish all five times in theaters. The story is interesting and unpredictable and it made me say 'oh shit' after each scene. It kept me on the edge of my seat and much like director Ari Aster's last film, Hereditary, I caught something new every time I watched it. My mom says it's one of those movies that she isn't surprised I liked because, "it probably has a simile in it," but if you're looking for something different and you can stomach it, give Midsommar your best shot as soon as possible.

Joker

Wow, Joaquin Phoenix swooped in and stole the show. I didn't think I could like a film more than Midsommar, but this film slid in just a hair behind. My mouth was agape from start to finish with Phoenix's performance, the plot, the visuals, and of course, the dancing. There was not one moment of this film that I wasn't enamored with. I think it's important to go into the film knowing it isn't a superhero film, I would categorize it as a drama. Even if you're unfamiliar with Batman entirely, go into it for the story and for Phoenix's performance. It was beautiful and I'm anxiously anticipating the DVD release on January 7th.

Art of Racing in the Rain

Talk about the best looking movie of the year thanks to my man Milo.

This movie is going to hit you in feelings you didn't know you were capable of feeling. Obviously, we all know to be wary of dog movies. However, you're prefaced in this one that Enzo is at the end because it's told from Enzo's perspective and his owner is Denny, a race car driver. It's a beautiful tale of friendship, family, and love with a unique spin on narration, but get the box of tissues ready because although you know what's coming, you won't be truly ready.

Marriage Story

I went to the Music Box theater in Chicago to see the Lighthouse, and when I left halfway through the film to renew parking on my phone and I heard Adam Driver (the love of my life) from the other theater. On the table, there were posters from the film and I took one which is now hanging on my wall although I hadn't seen the film yet. I'll admit that the main reason I saw this film was for Adam, but I didn't expect it to break my heart a handful of times. Both I'm and ScarJo give intimate and beautiful portrayals of a relationship. Their chemistry is magic and although the story is simple, it will encapsulate you from the opening monologue. It's on Netflix and way worth your time.

(oh my god)

Us

That gif is my favorite shot from the movie. Peele's sophomore film does not disappoint. Lupita N'yongo took my breath away with her performance in this film, especially in the end scene, but everybody in this movie kicks ass in their acting especially since they need to be themselves and their tethered selves. I didn't think it was as scary as it was a thriller, much like Get Out. Us will keep you on the edge of your seat with a plot twist that I guessed pretty early on, but kept a lot of people guessing. 

Also, what is not to love about Winston Duke? He's the ultimate dad.

This has been an amazing year for film and has created some of my all-time favorite films. I can't wait for what 2020 has in store for us.